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Jackson County, North Carolina — County Report Card

NC

#17 in North Carolina

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers MarketsView on Map
55.5
County Score
Property Tax 95.5Weather & Climate 75Cost of Living 70

County Report Card

About Jackson County, North Carolina

Outperforming the National Median

Jackson County earns a strong composite score of 55.5, comfortably exceeding the national median of 50.0. This indicates a higher general quality of life compared to the majority of counties across the United States.

A Top Performer in North Carolina

Jackson County significantly outperforms the North Carolina average composite score of 44.7. Its 55.5 rating highlights it as a standout location for livability within the state's mountain region.

Exceptional Tax and Housing Affordability

The county shines with a tax score of 95.5, thanks to a very low effective tax rate of 0.369%. Housing is also highly accessible, with a cost score of 70.0 and a median gross rent of only $855 per month.

Lower Incomes and Environmental Risks

Economic growth remains a challenge as the income score sits at 21.7 with a median household income of $53,479. The county also struggles with an environmental risk score of 19.5 and a water quality score of 29.4.

Ideal for Retirees and Remote Workers

Jackson County is a perfect fit for individuals seeking low taxes and affordable mountain living without the need for a high local salary. It appeals most to those who value financial flexibility over urban career ladders.

2040608010095.57033.547.156.221.719.529.475Tax95.5Cost70Safety33.5Health47.1Schools56.2Income21.7Risk19.5Water29.4Weather7555.5/100
This county
National avg
3 above average4 below average

Jackson County DNA

Foverall

How Jackson County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Jackson County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Property Tax (95.5/100) but notably weak in Income (21.7/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
95.5+43.5
Cost
70+22
Safety
33.5-21.5
Health
47.1
Schools
56.2
Income
21.7-29.3
Risk
19.5-27.5
Water
29.4-28.6
Weather
75+19
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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$253,900

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$855/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$253,900/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$34,200/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum4.7x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $53,479/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

18.6

per 100K

Data from Federal Reserve (FRED), U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, and CMS NPPES.

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Nearby counties

Macon County
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56
Transylvania County
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Swain County
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Rabun County
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Pickens County
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Oconee County
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Clay County
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Deep Dives

Jackson County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 11 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Jackson County

via TaxByCounty

Jackson County has the nation's lowest rates

Jackson County's effective tax rate of 0.369% ranks in the bottom 5% nationally—among the lowest in the entire United States. Residents pay just $938 in median annual property taxes, a fraction of the national median of $2,690, even though home values near the national average.

Jackson leads North Carolina in tax savings

At 0.369%, Jackson County's effective rate is less than half the state average of 0.701%, making it the most tax-friendly county in North Carolina by a wide margin. The median annual property tax of $938 falls 34% below the state median of $1,433.

Jackson far outpaces region on affordability

Jackson's 0.369% rate dramatically undercuts neighboring Macon County (0.427%) and Lee County (0.798%), offering unmatched tax relief in the western mountains. Jackson homeowners pay roughly half what neighbors in Lee County pay annually for homes of similar value.

Jackson homeowners pay the least

A median Jackson home valued at $253,900 carries an annual property tax of just $938. Even with mortgage-related additions, Jackson residents rarely exceed $984 in annual taxes—a remarkable bargain compared to national norms.

Even Jackson homeowners should check assessments

While Jackson offers among the nation's lowest rates, overassessment still occurs. Filing an appeal with the county assessor if you believe your valuation is inflated could yield additional savings, even in a low-tax county.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Jackson County

via CostByCounty

Jackson's rent burden exceeds the nation

Jackson County renters spend 19.2% of income on housing, surpassing both the national median of 18.6% and the state average, indicating tighter affordability despite modest rents. With a median household income of $53,479—well below the national average of $74,755—income constraints compound the housing pressure.

Jackson ranks among North Carolina's least affordable

Jackson's 19.2% rent-to-income ratio places it above the state average of 18.6%, reflecting lower incomes relative to housing costs. The county's median rent of $855 is actually below state average, yet residents here struggle more because their incomes lag significantly.

Jackson faces steeper affordability challenges nearby

Jackson's 19.2% rent-to-income ratio outpaces nearby Macon County (17.8%) and Jones County (15.6%), making it one of the region's tighter markets for renters. While rents are modest at $855 monthly, the lower median income of $53,479 creates the real affordability squeeze.

Lower incomes drive Jackson's affordability crunch

Jackson renters pay $855 monthly while homeowners with mortgages pay $550, but the real pressure comes from a median income of just $53,479. This means renters dedicate roughly 19% of their income to housing alone—a tighter squeeze than wealthier counties with similar rents.

Jackson offers cheap housing, but income matters most

If remote work allows you to maintain higher earnings while relocating, Jackson's $855 median rent and $253,900 median home values deliver exceptional value. But if considering a local job here, verify that wages support your lifestyle—affordability depends less on housing costs than on securing adequate income.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Jackson County

via IncomeByCounty

Jackson County lags national income

Jackson County's median household income of $53,479 falls $21,276 short of the national median of $74,755, ranking in the lower 30% nationally. This 28% gap reflects economic challenges and limited high-wage opportunities in the region.

Below-average earnings in North Carolina

Jackson County's $53,479 median income sits 12% below North Carolina's state average of $61,072, placing it among the state's lower-income counties. Per capita income of $32,937 also trails the state average of $33,920.

Jackson struggles against similar counties

Jackson County's $53,479 income falls near Macon County ($53,298) but well below Johnston County ($79,838) and Iredell County ($78,678). The $25,000+ gap to top-earning neighbors underscores Jackson's lower economic base.

Housing costs stretch budgets in Jackson

Jackson County's 19.2% rent-to-income ratio remains manageable, but median home values of $253,900 consume a larger share of household earnings here than in higher-income areas. Residents should scrutinize mortgage affordability carefully given lower median incomes.

Strategic wealth-building matters more here

With median incomes below state and national averages, Jackson County residents benefit from disciplined budgeting and incremental saving strategies. Even modest monthly investments and employer-sponsored retirement plans can compound significantly over time.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Jackson County

via CrimeByCounty

Jackson County Boasts High Safety Scores

Jackson County earns an impressive safety score of 97.5, reflecting a secure environment. The total crime rate of 1,554.7 per 100,000 is nearly 35% lower than the national average of 2,385.5.

Surpassing the State Safety Average

Jackson outperforms the North Carolina average safety score of 96.8 by nearly a full point. Its total crime rate is also significantly lower than the state average of 2,050.0 per 100,000 people.

A Secure Western North Carolina Enclave

Jackson maintains a safer profile than many neighboring counties, reporting far fewer incidents per capita. Four local agencies work together to keep the total crime rate more than 24% below the state average.

Low Rates for Violent and Property Crime

Violent crime occurs at a rate of 245.4 per 100,000, well below the national mark of 369.8. Property crime makes up the bulk of activity at 1,309.3, though this remains very low by both state and national standards.

Vigilance Protects Jackson Homes

Even in a safe county, staying vigilant about property security is essential. Securing outbuildings and installing visible cameras can help prevent opportunistic thefts in more rural areas.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Jackson County

via SchoolsByCounty

Intimate educational settings in the mountains

Jackson County operates 11 public schools that serve a total enrollment of 3,908 students. The infrastructure includes five elementary schools and four high schools distributed among three local districts. This smaller scale allows for a focused approach to student development across the county.

Academic scores exceeding state benchmarks

Jackson County achieves an impressive 93% graduation rate, which sits well above the 88% state average. The composite school score of 55.0 also beats the state median of 52.4. These results come even as per-pupil spending of $6,931 aligns closely with North Carolina's statewide averages.

Jackson County Public Schools leads the way

The Jackson County Public Schools district is the primary provider, educating 3,557 students across nine campuses. Summit Charter serves as the county's single charter option with 292 students, while the Catamount School provides a highly specialized environment for 59 students. These varied districts offer tailored educational paths for mountain residents.

A predominantly rural learning environment

Almost all schools in Jackson County are situated in rural locales, creating a tight-knit community feel. The average school size is just 355 students, with Smoky Mountain High School being the largest at 899 pupils. Schools like Fairview Elementary provide a mid-sized primary education experience with 762 students.

Relocate to a high-achieving school community

Families seeking high academic standards and smaller class sizes will find Jackson County highly attractive. The 93% graduation rate makes this a standout destination for those prioritizing education in their home search. Consider local neighborhoods near Cullowhee or Sylva for easy access to these top-rated rural schools.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Jackson County

via RiskByCounty

Jackson County exceeds typical U.S. hazard levels

Jackson County's composite risk score of 80.47 places it in the Relatively Low category but above the national average, indicating residents face more frequent natural hazard exposure than most Americans. Flood and earthquake risks are the primary drivers of this elevated profile.

Jackson ranks above the North Carolina average

At 80.47, Jackson County's composite score exceeds the state average of 66.72, putting it among the higher-risk counties in North Carolina. Despite the Relatively Low rating, its position reflects meaningful exposure to multiple natural hazards.

Jackson closely mirrors Iredell and Macon hazards

Jackson (80.47) sits between Macon County (73.79) and Iredell County (80.79) in overall risk, though Jackson's wildfire score of 46.34 is slightly lower than both neighbors. All three counties share comparable flood and earthquake vulnerabilities, reflecting their western North Carolina mountain geography.

Floods and earthquakes pose the greatest threats

Flood risk reaches 83.21 in Jackson, while earthquake risk ranks at 74.36—both substantial hazards requiring preparedness. Wildfire risk remains moderate at 46.34, and tornado risk is notably lower at 62.15, providing some relief in those categories.

Flood insurance and seismic coverage matter here

Jackson residents should secure flood insurance immediately, as standard homeowners policies exclude flood damage. Consider earthquake coverage as well, given the county's 74.36 score, and keep your emergency supply kit updated for rapid water or ground movement events.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Jackson County

via WaterByCounty

Urgent Improvements Needed for Jackson County Water

Jackson County holds an F grade for drinking water compliance, recording 18 health violations over a five-year period. At 70.1 violations per 100,000 residents, the county's rate is more than double the North Carolina state average of 31.7. This high frequency of violations signals persistent challenges in meeting EPA safety standards.

Federal Watershed Health Data Not Yet Available

Jackson County's primary water bodies are currently not covered in the federal §303(d) assessment database. While local monitoring occurs, the county lacks the formal impairment data used to benchmark watershed health against state averages. This data gap highlights a need for expanded federal water quality assessment in the region.

Robust Monitoring Network Tracks Over 9,000 Data Points

The county benefits from 29 active monitoring sites that have generated 9,796 measurements in the last five years. These records focus on physical properties, organic compounds, and pesticides to track environmental health. This high density of data helps local officials identify potential contaminants before they reach the public.

Tuckasegee River Running at One-Third Capacity

Current discharge at the Tuckasegee River gauge at Barker's Creek is 259 cubic feet per second. This represents only 31% of the historical mean flow for this time of year. Reduced river volume can lead to higher concentrations of minerals and organic matter in the raw water supply.

Prioritize Filtration Given High Violation Rates

Residents should consider high-quality home filtration systems to address the county's elevated health violation rate. Because the Tuckasegee River is currently flowing at just 31% of its normal rate, monitoring for concentrated organic pollutants is especially important. Stay informed on specific local water system alerts and annual quality reports.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Jackson County

via WeatherByCounty

Mountain elevation brings cooler air

Jackson County's 56.1°F annual average is very close to the national median. The high elevation provides a cool, mountain climate that is rare in the deeper South.

Refreshing relief from state-wide heat

Jackson is much cooler than the 59.3°F North Carolina average. It is also quite wet, receiving 54.2 inches of annual precipitation compared to the 51.5-inch state average.

A snowy mountain standout

The county averages 4.3 inches of snow, significantly more than its neighbors in the eastern Piedmont. Its summer average of 72.5°F is among the lowest in the entire state.

Mild summers with very few hot days

The county only sees 13 days of 90°F heat per year, making it a summer haven. Winter is cold and consistent, with a January average of 37.1°F.

Embrace the outdoors and winter heating

With only 13 extreme heat days, you can enjoy outdoor recreation most of the summer. Focus your home budget on heating and insulation to handle the snowy, 39°F average winters.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Jackson County

via SoilByCounty

Very Acidic Mountain Highlands

Jackson County features very acidic soil with a pH of 4.87, falling well below the North Carolina average of 5.14. Although taxonomic records are sparse, this sharp acidity defines the high-elevation Appalachian terrain.

Light Texture and Low Clay

The ground consists of 45.0% sand and only 11.7% clay, which is a lighter mix than many Piedmont neighbors. This low clay percentage suggests the soil is easy to turn but may struggle to hold onto heavy minerals.

Exceptional Organic Wealth

Organic matter is exceptionally high at 18.30%, dwarfing the state average of 5.12% and the national 2.0% mark. This rich carbon content offsets a slightly lower available water capacity of 0.125 in/in by improving soil structure.

Naturally Regulated Moisture

Specific drainage class data is currently limited for this mountain county. Local growers find that the high organic matter helps regulate moisture naturally, preventing the soil from drying out too quickly on sloped terrain.

Perfect for Cool-Weather Crops

Located in Zone 7a, the county is ideal for cool-weather favorites like apples, ramps, and berries. Gardeners should embrace the massive organic matter reserves to build a flourishing mountain homestead.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Jackson County

via LawnByCounty

Cooler Slopes and High Success Scores

Jackson County boasts a 54.3 difficulty score, indicating a more manageable lawn care experience than the state average of 40.8. Its position in hardiness zone 7a allows for different turf choices than the warmer coastal plains.

High Rainfall and Low Heat Stress

With 54.2 inches of annual rain and only 13 extreme heat days, Jackson County avoids the scorching summers that plague other parts of the state. These 3,646 growing degree days favor grasses that prefer moderate temperatures and plenty of water.

Overcoming Extreme Soil Acidity

A very low pH of 4.87 means heavy lime applications are essential to make soil nutrients available to your grass. The soil is 45.0% sand, requiring organic matter additions to help hold onto those nutrients and improve overall structure.

Managing Water During Dry Spells

Despite high rainfall, the county has experienced 19 weeks of drought recently, with 100% currently in severe drought. Mulching grass clippings back into the lawn is a smart way to retain moisture during these critical dry periods.

Cool-Season Turf Thrives Here

Tall Fescue is a top performer in this 7a zone, especially when seeded after the last spring frost on April 19. The cooler July average of 74.0°F makes this one of the best spots in the state for thriving, green fescue lawns.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Jackson County's county score?
Jackson County, North Carolina has a composite county score of 55.5 out of 100 on CountyScore. This score is calculated from a weighted average of available data dimensions including property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools.
How does Jackson County rank among counties in North Carolina?
Jackson County ranks #17 among all counties in North Carolina on CountyScore's composite ranking. Rankings are based on available data dimensions and updated as new data is added.
What are property taxes like in Jackson County, North Carolina?
The median annual property tax in Jackson County is $938, with an effective tax rate of 0.37%. This earns Jackson County a tax score of 95.5/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Jackson County?
The median household income in Jackson County, North Carolina is $53,479 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Jackson County earns an income score of 21.7/100 on CountyScore.
Is Jackson County, North Carolina a good place to live?
Jackson County scores 55.5/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #17 in North Carolina. The best way to evaluate Jackson County is to compare individual dimension scores — property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools — based on your personal priorities. Use CountyScore to compare Jackson County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers Markets

Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.